Historical Notation:
Lion's Mane has been used traditionally in China and Japan for hundreds of years, and also known there as Bear's Head or Monkey's Head. Commonly prescribed for stomach ailments and for cancer prevention, this mushroom was once reserved only for the palates of the royal families. Currently, you may find this mushroom in Chinese vegetarian cuisine, used to replace pork or lamb.

Research:
In traditional Chinese medicine this mushroom has long been considered a medicinal mushroom and a study on rats in 2005 showed that some compounds in the mushroom, like threitol, D-arabinitol, and palmitic acid may have antioxidant effects, may regulate blood lipid levels and reduce blood glucose levels. Ying (1987) reports that pills of this mushroom are used in the treatment of gastric and esophageal carcinoma. Scientists have investigated this mushroom for possible anti-dementia compounds. Primary research has demonstrated that it stimulated animal nerve cells, stimulated nerve growth factor in an in vitro experiment with human astrocytoma cells and stimulated myelination in another study. A double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trial showed improved cognitive ability.

Recently a group of Japanese researchers have patented an extraction process which isolates a NGSF (Nerve Growth Stimulant Factor). They found a compound in Hericium erinaceus which causes brain neurons to regrow, a feat of great significance in potentially helping senility, repairing neurological degradation, increasing intelligence and improving reflexes. Studies also confirm many of its traditional uses, supporting the digestive system, and acting as a tonic for the nervous system.

Lyme Disease Use: For application in the case of Lyme Disease, you can find information about Stephen Buhner’s protocol at http://buhnerhealinglyme.com. There is much to know about how Lions Mane is used for treating spirochaete bacteria in the brain caused by Lyme Disease. Lions Mane can pass through the blood brain barrier, unlike Teasel, thus releasing spirochaetes into the blood stream to eradicate the bacteria. This calls up a bulk of work for the immune system, therefore, it is recommended that a regiment for immune system support be implemented as part of an overall treatment plan.

Warnings: Do not use if you are allergic to mushrooms or derivatives of fungi. According to Dr. Andrew Weil, MD, Lion's Mane mushroom is a nontoxic medicinal (and culinary) and completely safe for women who are breastfeeding. If you are using Lions Mane for the treatment of Lyme Disease, what is known as the Herx Reaction may cause a notable amount of discomfort from the spirochaete bacteria release.

Note: This information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgement of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare provider. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of this extract is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare provider before taking this tincture.